What is a Jewel Case?
A Jewel Case is a tough, clear plastic container designed to store and protect CDs (Compact Discs), DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. This type of case has been a standard in the music and software industries for decades due to its ability to safeguard the disc from scratches, dust, and other potential damage.
Structure of a Jewel Case
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Front Cover:
- Transparent and hinged to open and close.
- Holds the insert paper, commonly a square of 120 mm (4.7 inches) that often features the album artwork or software title.
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Tray:
- Typically black or transparent, where the disc is mounted via an embedded hub.
- Alternatively, it can include compartments for booklets or additional inserts.
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Back Cover:
- Also transparent and may hold additional graphic inserts visible through the case.
Types of Inserts
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Front Insert (Booklet):
- Fits into the front cover of the case.
- Can be a single sheet or a multi-page booklet with information like tracklists, lyrics, or software instructions.
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Tray Card:
- Fits into the back cover beneath the tray where the disc rests.
- Often shows artwork, track titles, or additional information visible from the back of the case.
Importance of Jewel Cases
- Protection: Safeguards the CD/DVD from physical harm.
- Organization: Helps keep physical media collections organized and identifiable.
- Presentation: Enhances the presentation with customized inserts showing artwork and other media-related information.
Examples of Usage
- Music Albums: Bands and artists frequently release physical copies of their music in jewel cases, including detailed booklets with lyrics, photos, and credits.
- Software and Games: Jewel cases store installation discs for software and video games, often containing manuals and serial numbers.
- Movies and Media Collections: DVDs and Blu-rays for movies and series, along with labels and additional information, commonly use jewel cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why is it called a “jewel” case? A: The term “jewel” case likely derives from the protective, valuable nature of the case, similar to how jewelry is safeguarded. Another notion is that its design, with clear and brightly shining qualities, resembles a jewel.
Q: Are there any standard sizes for jewel cases? A: Yes, the standard size for a jewel case is approximately 142 mm × 125 mm × 10 mm (5.59 in × 4.92 in × 0.39 in). This standard ensures compatibility for storage and shelving.
Q: Can jewel cases be recycled? A: Most jewel cases are made from polystyrene, a type of plastic that can be recycled. However, recycling availability depends on local recycling programs, as some may not accept this material.
Q: What alternatives to jewel cases are available? A: Some alternatives include digipaks (cardboard cases), sleeve packs, and slim cases, which offer different forms of disc storage and presentation.
Related Terms
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Digipak: A type of packaging made from cardboard with a plastic tray inside for holding the disc, often seen as an eco-friendlier alternative to jewel cases.
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Slim Case: A thinner alternative to the traditional jewel case, reducing material used and storage space required.
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Disc Sleeve: A paper or plastic sleeve that holds a disc with minimal protection, often used for promotional or bulk storage.
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Box Set: A type of packaging that contains multiple discs and extensive printed materials, often housed in a larger, more elaborate case.
Online Resources
- Wikipedia - Jewel Case
- Disc Makers - Understanding CD Packaging
- Konstant - CD & DVD Packaging Solutions
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- The Compact Disc Handbook by Ken C. Pohlmann
- Recording Music on Compact Disc by Chuck von Schmidt
- Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man by Marshall McLuhan (for broader media perspectives)
- Milestones in Digital Audio Evolution by Jean-Michel Laval
Fundamentals of Jewel Case: Communications and Packaging Basics Quiz
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