Which statement best describes a wholesaler's function in the jewelry market?

A wholesaler in the jewelry market plays a crucial role by acting as an intermediary between gem suppliers and jewelry manufacturers. By supplying gems to jewelry manufacturers, wholesalers ensure that these manufacturers have access to the essential materials needed to create finished jewelry products. This allows jewelry manufacturers to focus on design, production, and marketing, while relying on wholesalers to provide a steady supply of high-quality gemstones.

The other options do not accurately capture the primary function of a wholesaler. Wholesalers do not directly sell to consumers, as this is typically the role of retailers who market and sell finished jewelry pieces. Additionally, while some wholesalers may be involved in the manufacturing process, their primary function is not to create custom jewelry pieces but rather to supply raw materials. Finally, although gemstone certification is important in the industry, this service is usually provided by independent gemological laboratories rather than wholesalers, making certification unrelated to the wholesaler's core function.