Complete CS2 Pattern Guide

Understanding CS2 Pattern IDs

Every CS2 skin has a Pattern ID that determines its unique visual appearance. This system is fundamental to understanding pattern value and rarity.

How Pattern IDs Work

• Range: Pattern IDs range from 1 to 1000 (1001 total possible patterns)
• Assignment: Randomly assigned when the skin is created/unboxed
• Immutable: Cannot be changed through trading or modifications
• Impact: Determines texture placement, color distribution, and visual elements

The Technical Side: Paint Seeds

Pattern IDs are also called Paint Seeds or Pattern Index in the community. Here's what happens behind the scenes:

• The game uses a large texture canvas called a "Pattern Template"
• When a skin is created, the paint seed determines the X offset, Y offset, and rotation value
• This creates a unique "slice" of the pattern template applied to your weapon
• Two identical skins with different seeds can look completely different

The Rare Pattern #1000

Pattern seed 1000 is special - it can only be obtained through trade-ups, not from unboxing. This makes Pattern #1000 impossible to get on:

• Knives
• Gloves
• Souvenir items
• Any item you cannot trade up to

This quirk makes Pattern #1000 uniquely rare on applicable skins and often commands a collector's premium.

Pattern Types Classification

Static Patterns

Minimal visual variation across different Pattern IDs

• Examples: AK Redline, M4A4 Howl
• Value Impact: Minimal

Semi-Dynamic Patterns

Moderate visual differences between Pattern IDs

• Examples: AK Vulcan, AWP Asiimov
• Value Impact: Low to Moderate

Dynamic Patterns

Significant visual transformations between Pattern IDs

• Examples: Case Hardened, Fade, Marble Fade
• Value Impact: Extreme

Pattern ID Tip: Our CS2 Float Checker extension automatically displays Pattern IDs alongside float values, making it easy to identify valuable patterns while browsing the Steam Market.

Case Hardened Patterns & Blue Gems

Case Hardened skins are the most sought-after patterns in CS2, with "Blue Gem" patterns commanding premium prices due to their rare blue coloration.

Blue Gem Tier System

Tier 1 Blue Gems

Maximum blue coverage, most valuable patterns

• Blue Coverage: 90%+ Blue
• Investment Score: 9-10 Points
• Market Premium: 500-2000%

Tier 2 Blue Gems

High blue coverage with excellent trading potential

• Blue Coverage: 70-90% Blue
• Investment Score: 7-8 Points
• Market Premium: 200-500%

Gold Gems

Minimal blue, maximum gold/bronze coloration

• Gold Coverage: 80%+ Gold
• Investment Score: 6-7 Points
• Market Premium: 50-200%

Case Hardened Weapons

AK-47 Case Hardened

Most iconic Blue Gem weapon - the "holy grail" of pattern-based skins

• #661 "Scar Pattern": The legendary #1 Blue Gem with maximum blue coverage on top
• #670: Second most famous AK Blue Gem pattern
• #387: Another top-tier pattern with extensive blue
• #321: Often considered the 4th best AK pattern
• #955 "Reverse Scar": High blue coverage in reversed position
• Max Value: $50,000+ for Tier 1 in Factory New

Five-SeveN Case Hardened

Rare blue slide patterns highly valued by collectors

• #278: One of the most sought-after blue gem patterns
• #690: Another top-tier five-seven pattern
• #868: Highly desirable full blue slide
• Blue Focus: Entire slide covered in blue
• Premium: $1,000+ for top patterns

Karambit Case Hardened

Blue gem knives with extreme value - the most expensive pattern-based items in the game

• #387: Full blue playside - considered the ultimate Karambit Blue Gem
• #442: Another legendary full blue pattern
• #470: High-tier blue coverage pattern
• Blade Coverage: Both playside AND backside matter for valuation
• Record Sales: $100,000+ for perfect specimens

Other Notable Case Hardened Weapons

• Huntsman Knife: Blue gem patterns available but less common
• Bayonet: Full blue spine patterns highly valued
• M9 Bayonet: Playside blue coverage is key
• Falchion Knife: Underrated blue gem potential

Blue Gem Detection: While our extension doesn't currently include Blue Gem detection (due to complexity), it provides Pattern IDs that you can cross-reference with community Blue Gem databases for identification.

Doppler Phases

Doppler knives are among the most valuable patterns in CS2. Our extension automatically detects all Doppler phases and provides accurate investment scoring.

Special Doppler Phases

Ruby

Extremely rare red phase with deep crimson colors

• Rarity: Ultra Rare
• Investment Bonus: +4 Points
• Market Premium: 300-500%

Sapphire

Legendary blue phase with brilliant sapphire appearance

• Rarity: Ultra Rare
• Investment Bonus: +4 Points
• Market Premium: 400-600%

Emerald

Exclusive gamma case phase with vibrant green colors

• Rarity: Ultra Rare
• Investment Bonus: +4 Points
• Market Premium: 250-400%

Black Pearl

Mysterious dark phase with subtle color shifts

• Rarity: Ultra Rare
• Investment Bonus: +4 Points
• Market Premium: 200-350%

Standard Doppler Phases

Phase 1

Balanced mix of colors with purple and pink tones

• Investment Bonus: +0.5 Points
• Market Position: Standard

Phase 2

Pink galaxy phase - highly sought after by collectors

• Investment Bonus: +2 Points
• Market Position: Premium

Phase 3

Green and blue mix with moderate appeal

• Investment Bonus: +0.5 Points
• Market Position: Standard

Phase 4

Blue-dominant phase with good trading potential

• Investment Bonus: +1 Point
• Market Position: Above Average

Pro Tip: Our extension automatically detects Doppler phases and adds appropriate investment score bonuses. Ruby, Sapphire, Black Pearl, and Emerald get the maximum +4 bonus, while Phase 2 gets +2 for its pink galaxy appeal.

Fade Patterns

Fade patterns transition from yellow to red to purple. Higher fade percentages are more valuable and automatically detected by our extension.

The Science of Fade Percentages

The fade percentage indicates how much of the purple/pink color is visible on the weapon. A 100% fade (or "full fade") shows maximum purple coloring with no gray or dull areas.

Key Pattern Seeds for 100% Fade

• Pattern #763: The definitive 100% Fade pattern for most weapons (Glock, Flip Knife, Bayonet, M9, Huntsman, Butterfly, Bowie, Falchion, Shadow Daggers, Gut Knife)
• Pattern #412: The highest fade pattern for AWP Fade, Karambit Fade, and Talon Knife

Fade Weapons Supported

Glock-18 Fade

The most accessible fade weapon for collectors

• 100% Fade (Pattern 763): Most Valuable - full purple coverage
• 95% Fade: High Premium - slight gray at the bottom
• <90% Fade: Standard - noticeable gray areas

Karambit Fade

The king of fade knives

• 90/10 Fade: Maximum purple, minimal yellow - most valuable
• 90/5/5 "True 90/10": Extremely rare, commands huge premium
• 80/17/3 Fade: High-value configuration
• Pattern #412: Highest fade pattern for Karambit

Butterfly Knife Fade

Highly popular fade knife

• Pattern #763: Full fade pattern
• Full Fade: Maximum purple coverage
• Near Full (95%+): Still commands premium

Huntsman Knife Fade

• Full Fade: Top Tier
• Near Full: Premium
• Partial: Lower Value

Investment Scoring for Fades

| Fade Percentage | Investment Points | Pattern Example | | --------------- | ----------------- | --------------- | | 100% Fade | +4 Points | #763 or #412 | | 95%+ Fade | +3 Points | High-tier seeds | | 90%+ Fade | +2 Points | Mid-tier seeds | | 80%+ Fade | +1 Point | Lower seeds | | <80% Fade | No Bonus | Most patterns |

How CS2 Float Checker Detects Patterns

Doppler Phase Detection System

Our extension uses paint index mapping to identify Doppler phases:

Paint Index → Phase Mapping:
415: Ruby
416: Sapphire
417: Black Pearl
418-421: Phases 1-4
568: Emerald (Gamma)
And more...

This ensures 100% accurate phase detection across all Doppler knives.

Fade Percentage Calculation

• Analyzes weapon type and skin name to identify fade items
• Uses paint seed ranges to calculate fade percentage
• Applies weapon-specific fade calculations
• Provides accurate fade percentages for supported weapons

Instant Detection: All pattern analysis happens instantly as you browse Steam Market listings. No need to manually check patterns - our extension does it automatically.

Pattern-Based Trading Strategies

The Doppler Arbitrage Strategy 💎

Look for mis-priced special phases:

• Ruby/Sapphire listed at regular Doppler prices
• Phase 2 "pink galaxy" patterns undervalued
• Emerald knives from Gamma cases often overlooked

Our extension's investment scoring automatically flags these opportunities with 8+ scores.

The Fade Percentage Play 🌈

Target high-fade items at low-fade prices:

• 95%+ fades often listed without premium pricing
• Full fade Glock-18s significantly undervalued
• Huntsman full fades rare and valuable

Items with 95%+ fade get +3 investment bonus points automatically.

Pattern Recognition Workflow 🎯

1. Install CS2 Float Checker extension
2. Browse Steam Market with automatic pattern detection
3. Look for items scoring 8+ (special patterns detected)
4. Verify pattern premium in current market
5. Execute trades on undervalued pattern items

Pattern Investment Priorities

Tier 1: Maximum Investment Potential

• Ruby Dopplers: Always profitable, consistent demand
• Sapphire Dopplers: Highest market premium of all phases
• Max Fade Items: 95%+ fade percentage weapons

Tier 2: Strong Investment Potential

• Emerald Dopplers: Growing popularity, undervalued
• Phase 2 Dopplers: Pink galaxy collectors' favorite
• 90%+ Fades: High fade percentage, good returns

Investment Insight: Items that score 9-10 with our algorithm typically have special patterns (Ruby, Sapphire, max fade) combined with excellent float values. These represent the safest pattern investments.

Other Notable Pattern Systems

Marble Fade Patterns

Marble Fade is one of the most visually stunning finishes in CS2, featuring flowing mixtures of red, blue, and yellow colors. The value depends heavily on the color distribution.

Fire & Ice (The Holy Grail)

Fire & Ice patterns display ONLY red and blue on the playside, with absolutely no yellow visible. This is the most valuable Marble Fade configuration.

The Max Tier System:

Fire & Ice patterns are rated from 1st Max (best) to 10th Max (lowest):

| Max Tier | Description | Price Range (Karambit) | | ------------ | ------------------------------- | ---------------------- | | 1st Max | Maximum red, perfect F&I | $13,000 - $19,000 | | 2nd Max | High red, minimal yellow hints | ~$3,800 | | 3rd Max | Great red, slightly more yellow | ~$3,000 | | 4th-6th Max | Good F&I, visible yellow hints | $2,300 - $2,700 | | 7th-10th Max | Entry F&I, more yellow bleeding | $2,100 - $2,300 |

Legendary Pattern #412 (1st Max):

Pattern seed #412 is considered the ultimate Fire & Ice pattern. It features the absolute maximum amount of red possible with a perfect 50% blue split and zero yellow. This is the rarest and most valuable Marble Fade pattern in existence.

Other Notable 1st Max Patterns: #152, #455, #463, #509, #603, #636, #727, #787, #815, #885, #897, #922

Fake Fire & Ice:

If there are hints of yellow near the handle or tip, the pattern is classified as "Fake Fire & Ice" - still valuable, but significantly less than true Fire & Ice.

Red Tip vs Blue Tip

Marble Fades are also categorized by their tip color:

• Red Tip: Generally commands higher prices
• Blue Tip: Slightly lower value than red
• Yellow Tip: Least valuable configuration

Tricolor

Even distribution of all three colors

• Colors: Red, Blue, Yellow balanced
• Market Premium: 50-150%
• Appeal: Some collectors prefer the full color display

Knives That Support Marble Fade

Fire & Ice patterns are possible on these knife models:

• Karambit (Most Valuable)
• Bayonet
• Flip Knife
• Gut Knife
• Talon Knife
• Navaja Knife
• Stiletto Knife
• Ursus Knife
• Paracord Knife
• Survival Knife
• Nomad Knife
• Skeleton Knife
• Classic Knife

Crimson Web Patterns

Crimson Web is one of the most iconic knife finishes in CS2, featuring a deep red base with black spider web patterns. The placement and number of webs dramatically affects value.

Web Placement Factors

• Centered Webs: Web patterns positioned in the center of the playside - MOST valuable
• Multiple Webs: Multiple web patterns visible on playside increase value significantly
• Clean Webs: Web patterns without scratches or wear marks (low float required)
• Mirrored Webs: Symmetrical web placement on both playside and backside
• Large Webs: Bigger, more prominent webs command higher premiums

Crimson Web Value Tiers

| Web Configuration | Value Multiplier | | --------------------------- | ---------------- | | Centered Big Web (Playside) | 200-400% premium | | Double Web (Playside) | 150-300% premium | | Single Web (Centered) | 100-200% premium | | Web on Backside Only | 20-50% premium | | No Visible Webs | Base price |

Why Factory New Crimson Webs Are Special

Factory New (FN) Crimson Web knives are extremely rare - one of the rarest conditions in the game. Most Crimson Web knives drop in Minimal Wear or Field-Tested condition. A FN Crimson Web with good web placement can be worth 10-50x more than MW equivalent.

Best Crimson Web Knives

• Karambit Crimson Web: The most sought-after CW knife - centered web on the curved blade is legendary
• M9 Bayonet Crimson Web: Large blade shows off web patterns beautifully
• Butterfly Knife Crimson Web: Popular and expensive with good webs
• Sport Gloves Crimson Web: Gloves also have CW patterns with web placement value

Special Pattern Recognition

AWP PAW

Centered golden cat/grenade patterns

• Feature: Centered imagery

Glock Moonrise

Rare star placement patterns

• Feature: Horizontal star movement

AK Redline

Clean minimal pattern variations

• Feature: Consistent appearance

Pattern Identification Tools & Resources

Essential Pattern Tools

CS2 Float Checker Extension

Our primary tool for instant pattern ID detection

• Features: Pattern ID, Float, Investment Score

Community Databases

Pattern wikis and classification systems

• Examples: CSGOStash, Pattern.wiki

Steam Inspect Links

Direct pattern verification method

• Access: Copy inspect link from Steam

Pattern Research Workflow 📊

1. Initial Scan: Use CS2 Float Checker to identify Pattern ID and float value
2. Pattern Lookup: Cross-reference Pattern ID with community databases
3. Value Assessment: Check recent sales of similar patterns
4. Rarity Confirmation: Verify pattern tier and market position
5. Investment Calculation: Compare current price to pattern premium
6. Market Timing: Assess market conditions for pattern type

Pro Research Tip: Always verify pattern information across multiple sources. Market values can fluctuate rapidly, and pattern tiers may change as new discoveries are made in the community.

Advanced Pattern Trading Strategies

Market Timing Strategies

• Pattern Cycle Trading: Buy patterns during low periods, sell during hype cycles
• Meta Shift Anticipation: Predict which patterns will gain popularity
• Cross-Platform Arbitrage: Exploit price differences across trading platforms

Risk Management for Pattern Investments

| Risk Level | Pattern Type | Example | | ----------- | --------------------------------------- | ----------------------------- | | High Risk | Unverified patterns, new discoveries | Recently discovered blue gems | | Medium Risk | Tier 2-3 patterns, emerging categories | Phase 3 Dopplers, 85% fades | | Low Risk | Established T1 patterns, proven history | Ruby/Sapphire, max fades |

Advanced Strategy: Focus on patterns that score 8+ with our extension but are priced like regular items. These represent the highest potential return opportunities with algorithmic validation.

Compatible Knife Types

Patterns like Doppler and Fade are available on specific knife models. Each knife type has different base values that affect the final price.

High-Value Knife Types

• ★ Karambit (Most Expensive Base)
• ★ M9 Bayonet (High Premium)
• ★ Butterfly Knife (Very Popular)
• ★ Bayonet (Classic Choice)
• ★ Talon Knife (Modern Favorite)
• ★ Flip Knife (Budget Friendly)

Common Pattern Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced traders make pattern-related mistakes. Here's what to watch out for:

Mistake #1: Trusting Screenshots Alone

Never buy an expensive pattern based on screenshots. Screenshots can be:

• Taken at flattering angles
• Edited or enhanced
• From a different item entirely

Solution: Always verify with inspect link or use our extension to check Pattern ID directly.

Mistake #2: Confusing Pattern ID with Value

Pattern ID numbers don't correlate with value. Pattern #1 isn't worth more than #999. Only specific patterns matter:

• #661 AK Case Hardened = Extremely valuable
• #662 AK Case Hardened = Potentially worthless

Solution: Research specific valuable patterns for each skin type before buying.

Mistake #3: Ignoring Playside vs Backside

For knives, pattern placement matters:

• Case Hardened: Blue on playside is worth 5-10x more than backside blue
• Crimson Web: Web placement on playside commands premium
• Marble Fade: Fire & Ice must be on playside to be genuine

Solution: Always inspect both sides and understand which side matters for the pattern type.

Mistake #4: Fake Fire & Ice Confusion

Many traders mistake "Fake Fire & Ice" for real Fire & Ice:

• True F&I: ZERO yellow visible on playside
• Fake F&I: Yellow hints near handle or tip

Solution: Use pattern databases to verify exact pattern seeds before paying F&I prices.

Mistake #5: Overpaying for "Rare" Pattern Claims

Sellers often claim patterns are "rare" when they're not. Every pattern from 1-1000 has equal drop chance.

Solution: Only pay premium for documented valuable patterns with community consensus on value.

Pattern Verification Checklist

Before buying any pattern-based skin:

1. Get the Pattern ID: Use CS2 Float Checker or inspect link
2. Cross-reference databases: Check CSFloat, BlueGem.gg, or pattern wikis
3. Verify recent sales: Look up actual sold prices for that exact pattern
4. Inspect both sides: Especially for knives - check playside AND backside
5. Check float value: Low float patterns are worth more
6. Consider StatTrak: ST versions of rare patterns are exponentially rarer
7. Verify authenticity: Use multiple sources to confirm pattern identification

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Pattern ID in CS2?

A Pattern ID (also called Paint Seed or Pattern Index) is a number from 1-1000 that determines how a skin's texture is positioned on a weapon. Each pattern creates a unique visual appearance, and some specific patterns are extremely valuable due to their rare color distributions.

How do I check my skin's Pattern ID?

You can check your Pattern ID by:

1. Using the CS2 Float Checker browser extension (shows pattern ID automatically on Steam Market)
2. Inspecting your weapon in-game and hovering over the info button
3. Using websites like CSFloat to look up your item

Are higher Pattern IDs more valuable?

No. Pattern ID numbers have no correlation with value. Pattern #1 is not inherently more valuable than #999. Value comes from specific patterns that create desirable visual effects (like Blue Gems or Fire & Ice). You must research which exact pattern numbers are valuable for each skin type.

What is a Blue Gem in CS2?

A Blue Gem refers to a Case Hardened skin with exceptionally high blue coloration. The term comes from the blue sections resembling gemstones. Top Blue Gem patterns like #661 on the AK-47 can be worth $50,000+ due to their rarity and visual appeal.

What's the difference between Doppler phases?

Doppler knives have multiple phases determined by paint index:

• Phases 1-4: Standard phases with varying color mixes
• Ruby: Full red (ultra rare, highest value)
• Sapphire: Full blue (ultra rare, highest value)
• Black Pearl: Dark iridescent (ultra rare)
• Emerald: Bright green from Gamma case (ultra rare)

How do I know if a Marble Fade is Fire & Ice?

True Fire & Ice patterns show ONLY red and blue colors on the playside with absolutely zero yellow. If you see any yellow, even near the handle, it's either a "Fake Fire & Ice" or a lower Max tier. Use pattern databases to verify the exact seed number.

Can Pattern IDs change?

No. Pattern IDs are permanent and immutable. They're assigned when the skin is created and cannot be changed through trading, transferring, or any other method. Only the wear level (scratches) can change visually.

What's the rarest pattern in CS2?

Pattern #1000 is technically the rarest because it can only be obtained through trade-ups, not unboxing. However, in terms of value, the rarest patterns are typically:

• #661 AK-47 Case Hardened (Scar Blue Gem)
• #387 Karambit Case Hardened (Full Blue)
• #412 Karambit Marble Fade (1st Max Fire & Ice)

Do patterns affect float value?

No. Pattern ID and float value are completely independent properties. A skin can have any combination of pattern and float. However, rare patterns with low floats are exponentially more valuable than the same pattern with high float.

How much premium should I pay for a good pattern?

Pattern premiums vary wildly:

• Blue Gems: 500-2000% over base price
• Ruby/Sapphire Dopplers: 300-600% over Phase 1-4
• Fire & Ice Marble Fade: 300-1000% over tricolor
• 95%+ Fade: 50-200% over low fade
• Centered Web Crimson: 100-400% over no web

Conclusion

Pattern mastery is essential for profitable CS2 trading. Our CS2 Float Checker extension automates pattern detection for:

• Doppler phases (all 7 types including gem phases)
• Fade percentages (95%+ detection for investment bonuses)
• Pattern IDs (instant display for database cross-reference)
• Investment scoring (automatic calculation of pattern value)

Success Formula: Pattern + Float + Rarity = Maximum Profit

Focus on items scoring 8-10, verify pattern premiums, and execute with confidence. The extension handles the technical analysis while you focus on finding deals and executing profitable trades.