Selling an Uncut Emerald: Value, Appraisal & Best Options

Question
I was vacationing in Cherokee,NC and visited the Smoky Mountain Gold and Ruby mine and found an emerald I was told was 1,057 carats. I am looking to sell the stone but don't know where to start. I was told the emerald is worthless unless cut which they offered to cut it at $75 per carat. I would like to know how I could sell this stone and what should I expect to get from selling this uncut stone?

Answer
First take the emerald to Gemologist Appraiser to have the quality evaluated. If the emerald is not of gem quality, it wont be worth it. If the emerald is of gem quality it would be a good idea to have it first cut and faceted before the final appraisal.

Good luck,
Sincerely,

Arthur DeMello GG (GIA)
http://www.jewelryappraiser.info