Clay,
Seeds split and grinning is a good sign that (at least those that are split and grinning) have had proper embryo development.
However - last year I bought a pound of seed from a well known and trusted seed supplier and when it arrived, some were split and grinning, and some even had 1/4\" tails. I assumed it was all good seed.
Planted it just like I did all of my other (very successful plantings) but less than 1% actually germinated in the spring.
At that time I was not wise to splitting the seeds open and checking for proper embryo development.
What you should do it pick out a few that are cracked/smiling and split them open and check the embryo.
But be sure you pick out several that are not cracked/smiling (still sealed up tight) and check them too. I would check about twice as many that are not cracked yet and make sure they show proper embryo development.
If the seed has been properly stratified, the embryo will be in the 2-3 mm size range. Some may be a bit larger some a bit smaller, but most should be in the 2-3 mm size range before you accept the batch as good.
Below is a link that shows some good details on the subject:
Good Luck !
TNhunter
www.wildgrown.com/index.php/Ginseng-Foru...ee-some-samples.html