What is jewel casing?

Jewel casing is the typical plastic packaging used for optical discs such as CDs and DVDs. It was introduced in 1982 by Philips and Sony as the standard packaging for the compact disc format.

The jewel case consists of two parts: a clear plastic tray that holds the disc and a hinged plastic case that covers the tray. The case usually includes a booklet with artwork, song lyrics, and other information about the disc, which is typically inserted into an inner slot of the tray.

Jewel cases are known for their durability and ability to protect discs from scratches and damage. They are also compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport and store. However, they have been criticized for contributing to plastic waste and being difficult to recycle.