CS2 Pattern Value Estimator
Calculate premium values for pattern-dependent CS2 skins. Estimate how much blue gem Case Hardened, high-fade percentages, rare Doppler phases, and other special patterns add to skin value compared to base market prices.
Pattern Value Calculator
💎 Case Hardened Blue Gems
Case Hardened patterns are valued by blue percentage. "Blue gems" with high blue coverage command massive premiums. Pattern index (seed) determines the specific placement - some seeds are legendary and worth 100x+ base price.
Estimated Value
Understanding CS2 Pattern Values
In Counter-Strike 2, certain skins have values that vary dramatically based on their pattern index (also called pattern seed). Unlike float value which affects wear appearance, patterns determine the actual visual design distribution on the skin. A skin's pattern is fixed and cannot be changed.
Pattern-dependent skins can be worth anywhere from the base market price to 100x or more for legendary patterns. Understanding these values is crucial for trading, as many traders unknowingly sell valuable patterns at base prices. According to Steam Community Market data and skin trading communities, pattern knowledge significantly impacts trading success.
Why Patterns Create Value Differences
Pattern value comes from rarity and desirability. Each skin has 1000 possible pattern indexes (0-999), and each creates a slightly different visual appearance. For most skins, these differences are negligible. But for pattern-dependent skins like Case Hardened, the pattern determines whether you have a normal skin or a legendary "blue gem."
Research by CSGOStash and community databases has catalogued which pattern indexes create desirable visual characteristics. This community knowledge has established which patterns command premiums.
How to Find Your Pattern Index
To determine your skin's pattern index:
- Use CSGOFloat or similar inspection tools
- Input the skin's inspect link
- The tool will display the pattern index (paint seed)
- Compare this index to known pattern tier lists
The pattern index is visible in the skin's inspect data and cannot be seen in-game without third-party tools.
Pattern Premium Guide by Type
Case Hardened Blue Gems
Case Hardened skins have a blue/gold/purple pattern distribution that varies by pattern index. "Blue gems" are patterns with high blue coverage, especially on the playside of weapons. The AK-47 Case Hardened pattern #661 (known as "Scar") is one of the most valuable non-knife skins in the game.
| Tier | Blue Coverage | Typical Multiplier | Notable Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legendary | 90%+ (full blue) | 50-200x | #661 (AK Scar), #387 (Karambit) |
| Tier 1 | 80-90% | 15-50x | #670, #321, #955 |
| Tier 2 | 60-80% | 5-15x | Various patterns |
| Tier 3 | 40-60% | 1.5-5x | Decent blue coverage |
| Base | <40% | 1x | Normal patterns |
Fade Percentages
Fade skins have a gradient that varies in coverage. Higher fade percentages (more colors visible) are more valuable. A 100% fade shows the full color spectrum, while lower fades cut off colors.
| Fade % | Description | Typical Multiplier |
|---|---|---|
| 100% | Full fade, all colors visible | 1.8-3x |
| 95-99% | Nearly full fade | 1.4-1.8x |
| 90-94% | High fade | 1.2-1.4x |
| 80-89% | Decent fade | 1.05-1.2x |
| <80% | Low fade | 0.9-1x |
Doppler Phases
Doppler skins come in different phases (1-4) plus rare variants. According to Liquipedia's cosmetics database, Ruby, Sapphire, Black Pearl, and Emerald are the rarest variants.
| Phase | Color Profile | Typical Multiplier |
|---|---|---|
| Ruby | Full red | 8-15x |
| Sapphire | Full blue | 10-20x |
| Black Pearl | Dark purple/black | 4-8x |
| Emerald (Gamma) | Full green | 10-18x |
| Phase 2 | Pink dominant | 1.3-1.6x |
| Phase 4 | Blue dominant | 1.2-1.4x |
| Phase 1 | Purple/dark | 1x |
| Phase 3 | Green/dark | 0.95-1x |
Marble Fade (Fire & Ice)
Marble Fade patterns are valued based on color distribution. "Fire & Ice" patterns (red and blue with no yellow) are most valuable. True Fire & Ice patterns have no visible yellow, while "Fake Fire & Ice" have minimal yellow.
| Pattern | Description | Typical Multiplier |
|---|---|---|
| True Fire & Ice | Pure red/blue, no yellow | 3-8x |
| Fake Fire & Ice | Minimal yellow visible | 2-3x |
| Tricolor (Red tip) | Red dominant tip | 1.3-1.8x |
| Tricolor (Blue tip) | Blue dominant tip | 1.1-1.3x |
| Yellow dominant | Mostly yellow | 0.9-1x |
Trading Tips for Pattern Skins
Expert Take
Pattern knowledge is the most valuable edge in CS2 skin trading. Many traders sell valuable patterns at base prices because they don't know what they have. Conversely, scammers try to overprice mediocre patterns. Always verify pattern index and compare to established tier lists before trading.
Before Buying Pattern Skins
- Always inspect the skin - Use CSGOFloat or similar tools to get the exact pattern index
- Cross-reference pattern databases - Compare to known tier lists for that skin
- Check recent sales - Look for similar patterns that have sold recently
- Be skeptical of claims - Sellers may overstate pattern quality
- Consider weapon type - Knife patterns command higher premiums than rifle patterns
Before Selling Pattern Skins
- Know your pattern index - Don't sell without knowing what you have
- Research comparable sales - Check trading forums and marketplaces
- Screenshot the pattern well - Clear images help buyers see the value
- Be patient - High-tier patterns may take time to find the right buyer
- Consider specialized marketplaces - Pattern-focused traders may pay more than casual buyers
Common Pattern Trading Mistakes
- Selling legendaries at market price - Always check pattern before selling Case Hardened, Fade, or Doppler skins
- Overpaying for overstated patterns - Sellers may claim "Tier 1" for Tier 3 patterns
- Ignoring position - For Case Hardened, playside matters more than backside
- Confusing pattern types - Doppler phase ≠ pattern index; know the difference
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This estimator provides rough estimates only. Actual pattern skin prices vary based on current market conditions, buyer demand, specific pattern characteristics, wear condition, and many other factors. These multipliers represent typical ranges observed in trading communities but are not guaranteed prices. Always research current market prices and recent sales before making trading decisions. Pattern skin trading carries risk.
Related CS2 Tools
Enhance your pattern skin analysis with these complementary tools:
- Float Checker - Analyze wear condition alongside pattern
- Skin Patterns Guide - Comprehensive pattern education
- Market Fee Calculator - Calculate Steam Market fees for pattern skin sales
- Collection Value Calculator - Track your skin portfolio value
- Sticker Value Calculator - Estimate applied sticker premiums
- Skin Trading Guide - Complete trading best practices
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these pattern values accurate?
These are estimates based on typical market patterns. Actual values can vary significantly based on market conditions, specific pattern characteristics, buyer demand, and recent sales. Always research current prices before making trading decisions. Consider this tool as a starting point for research, not a definitive price guide.
How do I find my skin's pattern index?
Use inspection tools like CSGOFloat, CS2 Inspect, or similar services. Input your skin's inspect link (right-click → Inspect → Copy link), and the tool will show the pattern index (paint seed). This number determines your exact pattern.
Why do patterns matter more for some skins?
Patterns only significantly affect value for skins where the pattern creates visible differences. Case Hardened, Fade, Doppler, and Marble Fade are "pattern-dependent" because different pattern indexes create dramatically different appearances. For most other skins, pattern index has minimal visual impact.
Do knives have higher pattern premiums than rifles?
Yes. Knife patterns typically command higher multipliers than rifle or pistol patterns of the same skin. A Case Hardened karambit blue gem is worth significantly more than an AK-47 with equivalent blue coverage, both in absolute terms and as a multiplier of base price.
Can pattern index be changed?
No. Pattern index is permanently fixed when the skin drops. It cannot be changed through any legitimate means. This is why rare patterns are valuable - they're fixed and limited in supply.
Is pattern the same as float value?
No. Pattern index determines the visual design distribution (e.g., where blue appears on Case Hardened). Float value determines wear appearance (scratches, fading). They are independent values. A skin with a great pattern can have any float value.
Where can I verify pattern tier lists?
Community resources like Reddit's GlobalOffensiveTrade, CSGOStash pattern databases, and dedicated pattern tier lists created by experienced traders are reliable sources. Cross-reference multiple sources for important trades.
Why are some Doppler phases worth less than base price?
Phase 3 Dopplers (green/dark) are generally considered the least desirable and may trade slightly below average market price. The Doppler "base price" often reflects an average across all phases, so less popular phases can be below that average.
Last updated: January 2026