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Introduction to Rare Patterns
In the world of CS2 skins, rarity isn't determined solely by the wear condition or the skin type—pattern variations can create items that are significantly more valuable than their standard counterparts. These special patterns are created by the way the texture is applied to the weapon model, resulting in unique appearances that collectors eagerly seek.
Understanding these pattern variations can help you identify potentially valuable items in cases you unbox, on the Steam Market, or on trading platforms like CSMoney. In some cases, a special pattern can increase a skin's value by 5-10 times or even more.
The rarest pattern variations can command price premiums of 1,000% or more compared to the same skin with a standard pattern, making pattern knowledge one of the most valuable skills in CS2 trading.
Case Hardened Blue Gems
Case Hardened skins feature a random mixture of blue, gold, and purple/silver areas. While the standard valuation is based on the overall amount of blue, certain specific patterns are considered exceptionally valuable "Blue Gems."
What Makes a Blue Gem
For a Case Hardened skin to be considered a true Blue Gem, it typically needs to meet specific criteria:
- High percentage of solid blue coverage (typically 80%+ for knives, 90%+ for AK-47s)
- Clean, uninterrupted blue areas rather than scattered patches
- Blue in prominent/visible locations (top for AK-47, playside for knives)
AK-47 Pattern #661 - "Scar Pattern"
Considered the most valuable AK-47 Case Hardened pattern. Features nearly full blue top with only a small "scar" of gold near the back sight. Factory New versions have sold for over $150,000.
Karambit Pattern #387 - "Blue Gem"
One of the most sought-after Karambit patterns with 95%+ blue playside. The color is particularly vibrant in CS2's improved lighting.
Five-SeveN Pattern #278 - "Full Blue"
A less well-known but still valuable pattern featuring nearly 100% blue on the slide and body.
Examples of valuable Blue Gem patterns on different weapons
How to Check a Case Hardened Pattern
To identify a Case Hardened pattern number, inspect the item in-game or on a marketplace, then use a pattern checker website (such as CSGOFloat or CS.Money pattern database) to input the skin's float value and get the pattern index.
Special Doppler Phases
Doppler knives come in various phases, each with a different color scheme. While the standard phases (Phase 1-4) have relatively similar values, there are three special variants that command significant premiums.
Ruby
Features a deep, solid red appearance throughout the blade. One of the most desired knife finishes in the game.
Sapphire
Has a brilliant blue appearance that's particularly vibrant in CS2. Generally the most valuable of the special Doppler phases.
Black Pearl
The rarest special phase with a dark, iridescent appearance showing hints of purple, green, and blue depending on lighting.
Within the standard Doppler phases, there are also subtle pattern variations that can affect value:
- Phase 2: "Pink Galaxy" patterns with maximum pink coverage can command a 20-30% premium
- Phase 4: "Max Blue" patterns with exceptional blue coverage can sell for 10-20% above market
In CS2, the lighting enhancements have made Sapphire and Ruby Dopplers even more visually striking, increasing their desirability and value compared to CS:GO.
Fade Percentages & Patterns
Fade skins are valued based on their "fade percentage," which determines how much of each color appears on the weapon. Higher fade percentages generally mean more vibrant colors with more purple/red coverage.
Fade Percentage Valuation
The typical fade percentage ranges from 80% to 100%, with the following general guidelines:
Butterfly Knife 100% Fade
Features maximum purple extension down the blade with a full purple tip. The animation of the Butterfly makes this one of the most sought-after fade knives.
Glock-18 Full Fade
Shows a complete color spectrum with purple extending fully onto the front of the slide.
Comparison of different fade percentages on a Butterfly Knife
Crimson Web Webbing
Crimson Web skins feature a red base with black web patterns. The placement and number of web patterns significantly affect the skin's value.
What Makes a Valuable Crimson Web
For Crimson Web knives, the following factors determine premium values:
- Number of webs (more is better, especially on the playside)
- Size of webs (larger, more defined webs are preferred)
- Positioning (central placement on the blade is most valuable)
- Clean crimson base (minimal black spots apart from the web patterns)
M9 Bayonet with 3 Large Center Webs
An extremely rare pattern featuring three large, perfectly positioned web patterns on the playside blade.
Karambit with Centered Web
Features a single large web perfectly centered on the playside blade, creating a symmetrical appearance.
Crimson Web in CS2
CS2's improved rendering makes the web patterns more visible and defined on Crimson Web skins, potentially increasing the value premium for good web patterns compared to CS:GO.
Marble Fade Fire & Ice
Marble Fade skins typically feature a mix of red, yellow, and blue areas. However, certain patterns known as "Fire and Ice" contain only red and blue colors without the yellow transition, making them significantly more valuable.
Fire and Ice Pattern Tiers
Fire and Ice patterns are classified into several tiers based on how much yellow is present (less is better) and the distribution of red and blue:
10th Max (Lowest Tier)
Minimal yellow visible, but red portion is smaller. Pattern indexes: 413, 693, etc.
4th-7th Max (Mid Tier)
Very little to no yellow, better red/blue distribution. Pattern indexes: 701, 649, etc.
1st-3rd Max (Top Tier)
Perfect Fire and Ice patterns with optimal color distribution. Pattern indexes: 412, 146, etc.
Comparison of different Fire and Ice pattern tiers
Pattern Verification Tools
Given the significant value differences based on patterns, it's crucial to verify pattern claims when trading. Several tools and resources can help with this:
CSGOFloat
The most comprehensive tool for checking pattern indexes. Allows you to input an item's inspect link to reveal the exact pattern index, float value, and other details.
CSMoney Pattern Database
While primarily designed for their own trading platform, CSMoney's pattern database contains useful reference images for various pattern indexes.
Community Pattern Guides
Several trusted community members have created detailed guides for specific pattern types, particularly for Case Hardened blue gems and Fire and Ice tiers.
Pattern Index Calculators
These tools can help convert between float values and pattern indexes, making it easier to identify specific patterns when only certain information is available.
Warning: Be extremely cautious when trading for rare patterns. Always verify pattern claims yourself using trusted tools, as pattern scams are unfortunately common in the CS2 trading community.
Conclusion
Understanding rare patterns in CS2 skins opens up a whole new dimension of trading and collecting. While standard market prices provide a baseline, knowledge of these special patterns can help you identify undervalued gems or ensure you're getting a fair deal when purchasing premium patterns.
The pattern market is highly specialized and often operates outside standard marketplaces. For high-tier pattern trading, communities on Discord, Reddit, and specialized trading sites are typically more suitable than the Steam Market or automated trading platforms.
Whether you're a collector looking for the perfect addition to your inventory or a trader seeking profit opportunities, developing pattern knowledge is one of the most valuable skills you can cultivate in the CS2 economy.
Have you ever found a rare pattern in your inventory or unboxed something special? Share your stories in the comments below!
