Search through the forums, the links in this section are very helpful. Stickies are there for a reason :]
Start with the germination process. You'll know within 48 hours if your seed hatches. http://forum.grasscity.com/absolute-beginners/15076-germination-420-a.html
Color, and strength of the outter shell do matter though. Tan, brown, or black are mature seeds, and to check if they are good squeeze the seeds in between your forefinger, and thumb. If they collapse they wouldn't have germinated, if they hold then you have a high probability of germinating them.