Which processes are typically included in the midstream phase?

• A. Mining and sorting rough diamonds.
• B. Diamond cutting and polishing, manufacturing and wholesale.
• C. Retailing and consumer end.
• D. Financing and insurance.

Answer: (B)

Midstream covers the transformation and distribution of diamonds after rough extraction. This includes diamond cutting and polishing to turn rough stones into polished diamonds, as well as manufacturing operations that create jewelry and wholesale activities that move those finished goods to retailers. This stage sits between the rough processing stage and the final retail sale, which is why it’s the best fit for midstream.

The other options don’t fit because mining and sorting rough are part of upstream activities, which occur before cutting and manufacturing. Retailing and the consumer end happen downstream, after the stones have been cut and jewelry manufactured. Financing and insurance, while important to the industry, are support activities rather than core midstream processes.