CS2 Case Hardened Blue Gem Guide
Complete pattern analysis, tier rankings, and identification guide for Case Hardened blue gems
Table of Contents
What is a Blue Gem?
A blue gem is a Case Hardened skin with a pattern index that produces predominantly blue coloring on the weapon's visible surfaces. The Case Hardened finish is unique in CS2 because each of its 1000 possible patterns creates dramatically different color distributions, ranging from mostly gold/purple to almost entirely blue.
Blue gems are among the most valuable pattern-dependent skins in CS2. While a standard Case Hardened AK-47 might sell for $30-50, a Tier 1 blue gem with pattern 661 can command $50,000-100,000 or more. This extreme price variance makes understanding patterns essential for anyone trading or collecting Case Hardened skins.
The blue coloring comes from how the Case Hardened texture is mapped onto each weapon. Think of it like wrapping a colorful sheet around the gun model - the pattern index determines where that wrap starts, which sections of color end up visible on the playside (the side you see while playing).
Key Terminology
- Pattern Index / Seed: A number 1-1000 that determines color distribution
- Blue Gem: Pattern with 70%+ blue on visible surfaces
- Tier 1: Top ~5-10 patterns with 90%+ blue
- Playside: The weapon side visible during normal gameplay
- Backside: The less-visible reverse side
- Scar: Gold/purple intrusion on otherwise blue pattern
Understanding the Pattern System
Every Case Hardened skin uses the same base texture, but the pattern index (1-1000) determines how that texture aligns with the weapon model. This creates exactly 1000 possible pattern variations per weapon type.
How Patterns Work
When a Case Hardened drops or is unboxed, the game randomly assigns one of 1000 pattern indexes. This assignment is permanent and cannot be changed. The pattern index is stored as part of the item's data and can be viewed using inspection tools like CSGOFloat.
Crucially, the same pattern index produces different results on different weapons. Pattern 661 is the #1 blue gem for AK-47, but it looks completely different on a Karambit or Five-SeveN. Each weapon has its own separate tier list of desirable patterns.
Pattern Distribution
Out of 1000 possible patterns:
- Tier 1 (Top ~5-10): 90%+ blue, extremely rare
- Tier 2 (~20-40): 80-90% blue, highly desirable
- Tier 3 (~50-100): 70-80% blue, collectible
- Standard (~850-900): Mixed colors, no premium
This means approximately 0.5-1% of Case Hardened skins qualify as "blue gems" in any meaningful sense. True Tier 1 patterns represent just 0.5-1% of that already small group.
Pattern Permanence
Unlike float values which exist on a continuous spectrum, pattern indexes are discrete. You either have pattern 661 or you don't - there's no "almost 661." This binary nature contributes to the extreme price differences between patterns. For more about how patterns work across all CS2 skins, see our Skin Patterns Guide.
AK-47 Case Hardened Blue Gem Patterns
The AK-47 Case Hardened is the most iconic and sought-after blue gem weapon. Its large, visible top surface creates dramatic blue displays on the right patterns.
AK-47 Blue Gem Tier Rankings
Tier 1 Elite Blue Gems (90%+ Blue)
$20,000 - $100,000+The absolute best AK-47 patterns with near-complete blue coverage on the top and body. These are grail items that rarely come to market.
Tier 2 Premium Blue Gems (80-90% Blue)
$3,000 - $20,000Excellent blue coverage with minor gold/purple intrusions. Still highly collectible and visually stunning.
Tier 3 Solid Blue Gems (70-80% Blue)
$500 - $3,000Good blue coverage that clearly qualifies as a blue gem, though with noticeable gold sections. Entry point for serious collectors.
Tier 4 Decent Blue (60-70% Blue)
$100 - $500Patterns with significant blue but also substantial gold/purple. May be marketed as "blue gems" but are better described as "above average blue."
Pattern 661: The Holy Grail
Pattern 661 is universally recognized as the #1 AK-47 blue gem. It features:
- ~95% blue coverage on the weapon top
- Clean, consistent blue without significant scars
- Blue extending to the magazine
- Minimal gold intrusion
Factory New pattern 661 AK-47s are among the rarest and most expensive skins in CS2 history, with documented sales exceeding $100,000. Even Battle-Scarred examples command $20,000+.
Knife Case Hardened Blue Gem Patterns
Case Hardened knives offer some of the most valuable blue gems in CS2. The Karambit is particularly prized because its curved blade showcases blue patterns dramatically.
Karambit Case Hardened
The Karambit's unique blade shape makes it the most sought-after Case Hardened knife. Blue gem Karambits command massive premiums.
Tier 1 Karambit
$50,000 - $500,000+Full blue playside with minimal gold. These are some of the most expensive items in CS2.
Tier 2 Karambit
$5,000 - $50,000Excellent blue with some gold. Still highly desirable.
Other Blue Gem Knives
While the Karambit commands the highest premiums, other knives have their own blue gem hierarchies:
| Knife Type | Top Pattern(s) | Tier 1 Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Karambit | 387, 269, 442 | $50,000 - $500,000+ |
| Butterfly | 494, 601, 182 | $20,000 - $100,000+ |
| M9 Bayonet | 601, 494, 905 | $15,000 - $80,000+ |
| Bayonet | 601, 494, 597 | $5,000 - $30,000 |
| Huntsman | 682, 670, 597 | $3,000 - $20,000 |
| Flip Knife | 670, 592, 321 | $2,000 - $15,000 |
| Gut Knife | 592, 670, 442 | $500 - $5,000 |
Note that knife blue gem tiers are different from AK-47 tiers. Pattern 387 is #1 for Karambit but may not be exceptional on other knives. Always reference knife-specific tier lists.
Five-SeveN Case Hardened Blue Gem Patterns
The Five-SeveN is the most affordable entry point into Case Hardened blue gems. Its smaller size means blue patterns are more common and cheaper, but top-tier patterns still command significant premiums.
Five-SeveN Blue Gem Tiers
Tier 1 Full Blue Top
$500 - $5,000Complete blue coverage on the top/visible area. The best Five-SeveN blue gems.
Tier 2 Mostly Blue
$100 - $500Excellent blue with small gold sections. Great value for collectors.
Tier 3 Solid Blue
$30 - $100Noticeable blue coverage that stands out from standard patterns. Entry-level blue gem.
The Five-SeveN is an excellent choice for those wanting a blue gem without spending thousands. Pattern 278 Five-SeveNs in Factory New condition typically cost $2,000-5,000 - expensive for a pistol but accessible compared to AK-47 or knife blue gems.
Other Case Hardened Weapons
Several other weapons feature Case Hardened finishes, each with their own pattern hierarchies:
MAC-10 Case Hardened
Affordable blue gems. Top patterns like 873, 661 command $50-200+ premiums over standard.
Tec-9 Case Hardened
Similar to Five-SeveN in pricing. Pattern 935 is highly sought after.
Galil AR Case Hardened
Less popular but has notable blue patterns. More affordable entry point.
For a broader overview of pattern-dependent skins including Fade and Doppler, see our Skin Patterns Guide.
How to Identify Blue Gems
Before buying any Case Hardened claiming to be a blue gem, follow these verification steps:
Inspection Tools
- CSGOFloat: Industry standard for checking pattern indexes and float values
- Steam Community Market: Use with browser extensions to see pattern data
- CSGOStash: Reference database for skin information
- Buff163/CSFloat Market: Usually display pattern indexes directly
For detailed skin inspection techniques, see our Skin Inspection Guide and Float Checker tool.
Blue Percentage Estimation
Estimating blue percentage is somewhat subjective, but general guidelines:
- Focus on the playside (what you see during normal gameplay)
- Blue on the top of the weapon is most valuable
- Small gold "scars" reduce value more than their size suggests
- Backside blue has minimal impact on value
Scam Prevention
Common Blue Gem Scams
Case Hardened blue gems are prime targets for scammers due to their subjective nature and extreme prices. Be vigilant.
Protection Checklist
For comprehensive account protection, see our Account Security Guide.
Buying & Trading Tips
Where to Buy Blue Gems
- Buff163: Largest selection, lowest fees, pattern indexes displayed. Requires Chinese payment methods or third-party balance services.
- CSFloat: Excellent for high-tier items, pattern data built in, peer-to-peer trading.
- Steam Community Market: Safe but requires inspection extensions to check patterns. Limited to $1,800 max.
- Reddit (r/GlobalOffensiveTrade): Person-to-person trades, good for finding specific patterns.
For platform comparisons, see our Third-Party Marketplaces Guide.
Buying Strategy
Smart Blue Gem Shopping
- Start with Five-SeveN or MAC-10 if you want an affordable blue gem experience
- Focus on Tier 2-3 for better value - Tier 1 commands extreme premiums
- Consider Field-Tested - wear condition matters less than pattern for Case Hardened
- Check multiple sources before buying - prices vary significantly between platforms
- Be patient - the right pattern at the right price will come eventually
Investment Considerations
Blue gems can appreciate significantly, but they're also risky investments:
- Pros: Finite supply, cult following, documented price appreciation on top patterns
- Cons: Illiquid market, subjective valuations, vulnerable to community sentiment shifts
- Best for investment: Tier 1-2 patterns on popular weapons (AK-47, Karambit)
- Worst for investment: Low-tier blue gems on unpopular weapons
For investment strategy, see our Skin Investment Guide and Skin Liquidity Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a blue gem Case Hardened?
A blue gem is a Case Hardened skin with a pattern index producing predominantly blue coloring (typically 70%+ blue on visible surfaces). Due to the random nature of patterns, only ~1-5% of Case Hardened skins qualify as blue gems, with top-tier patterns being extremely rare.
What is the #1 AK-47 blue gem pattern?
Pattern 661 is universally recognized as the #1 AK-47 Case Hardened blue gem. It features approximately 95% blue coverage on the weapon's top. Factory New 661s can sell for $50,000-100,000+.
How do I check a Case Hardened pattern index?
Use CSGOFloat or similar inspection tools. On Steam Market, use the CSGOFloat browser extension. On Buff163/CSFloat marketplace, pattern indexes are displayed directly. Never buy expensive blue gems without verifying the pattern.
Are purple Case Hardened patterns valuable?
No. Despite occasional seller claims, the CS2 community values blue over all other colors. Purple, gold, and "blaze" patterns are not considered premium. Only high blue percentage patterns command significant premiums.
Do the same patterns work across all weapons?
No. Pattern index 661 is #1 for AK-47 but looks completely different on other weapons. Each weapon has its own separate tier list because the Case Hardened texture maps differently onto each model.
Can I trade up to a blue gem?
Technically yes, but it's essentially gambling. Trade-ups generate random pattern indexes, so your chance of getting a Tier 1 blue gem is roughly 0.1-0.2% (1-2 out of 1000 patterns). Buying directly is far more reliable.
Does wear condition affect blue gem value?
Yes, but less than you might expect. Pattern is the primary value driver. A Battle-Scarred Tier 1 blue gem is still worth far more than a Factory New standard pattern. That said, FN/MW command premiums within the same pattern.
Related CS2 Guides & Tools
Continue learning about patterns and skin valuation:
- Skin Patterns Guide - Overview of all pattern-dependent skins
- Fade Percentage Guide - Understanding Fade patterns
- Doppler Patterns Guide - Doppler phases and rare variants
- Pattern Value Estimator - Calculate pattern premiums
- Float Values Explained - How wear affects skins
- Float Checker - Check float values
- Skin Inspection Guide - Pre-purchase verification
- Skin Trading Guide - Trading best practices
- Third-Party Marketplaces - Where to buy blue gems
- Account Security Guide - Protect your inventory
- Rare Skins Guide - Other valuable rare skins
- All CS2 Tools - Browse our complete toolkit
Final Perspective:
"Case Hardened blue gems represent the intersection of rarity, aesthetics, and community culture in CS2. They're fascinating collectibles, but approach with education and caution. The difference between a $50 skin and a $50,000 skin comes down to pattern knowledge - and scammers know that most buyers don't have it. Verify everything, trust no one's word about pattern quality, and remember that a skin is only worth what someone will actually pay for it."
Important Disclaimer
Blue gem prices are highly subjective and can vary significantly between buyers. The prices in this guide are approximate and based on market observations at the time of writing. Always research current market conditions before making significant purchases. Pattern tier lists may vary between sources. For help with gambling-related issues, visit BeGambleAware.org.
Last updated: January 2026