A jewel case for storing and transporting compact discs and related optical storage
media. The jewel case includes a front cover, back cover and a hinge region connecting
the front and back covers. At least one of the surfaces of the covers is treated
to enhance its ink-receptive properties such that it can accept direct printing
of text, graphics and related indicia, thereby obviating the need for separate
printed indicia-containing inserts. Suitable plastic, such as high impact polystyrene,
is used to make up the ink-receptive portions of the jewel case, thereby reducing
its brittleness. The reduced thickness and simplistic configuration of the jewel
case saves manufacturing and shipping costs, while the use of smaller quantities
of plastic, as well as the reduction or elimination of paper inserts, results in
reduced environmental impact once the jewel case is discarded.
