In the ever-evolving world of Path of Exile 2, character optimization is more complex and rewarding than ever. Among the wide array of crafting currencies and enhancement items, Catalysts remain a POE 2 Currency unique and powerful way to enhance your gear. Originally introduced in Path of Exile: Metamorph, Catalysts have found renewed relevance in Path of Exile 2 as they maintain their core function while becoming even more strategically significant for late-game character development.

This guide will break down what Catalysts are, how they work, where to get them, and the best ways to use them effectively in your builds.

What Are Catalysts?
Catalysts are a special type of currency item used to improve the quality of jewelry — rings, amulets, and belts — but with a twist. Unlike armor or weapons, where quality improves defense or damage respectively, quality on jewelry enhances the stats of specific types of modifiers. The type of Catalyst used determines which modifier groups benefit from the quality increase.

Each Catalyst applies up to 20% quality, and that quality boosts the effectiveness of affixes in its associated modifier group. For example:

Abrasive Catalyst increases quality that enhances attack modifiers.

Fertile Catalyst improves life and mana modifiers.

Intrinsic Catalyst benefits attribute modifiers (Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence).

Turbulent Catalyst enhances elemental damage modifiers.

This makes Catalysts not just useful for maximizing stat values, but also for planning synergistic gear around core build mechanics.

How to Get Catalysts in Path of Exile 2
Catalysts are considered mid-to-high-tier currency and are not as common as other crafting items. In Path of Exile 2, they are obtained primarily through:

Metamorph Encounters: Metamorphs have returned as part of POE2’s core content rotation. Killing boss monsters created from harvested organs has a chance to drop Catalysts, especially if organs with higher difficulty or reward tiers are selected.

League Mechanics and Events: Certain leagues and events may boost Catalyst drop rates or offer them as rewards. For example, a crafting-focused league may make them more accessible.

Vendor Recipes (TBD in POE2): While not confirmed, Path of Exile 1 had vendor recipes involving jewelry and specific components that yielded Catalysts. It’s worth experimenting or watching patch notes to see if these recipes return.

Trade: Catalysts are often in demand for crafting and selling high-end jewelry. Trading with other players or using trade websites can be a good way to stock up, especially if your build revolves around high-impact rings or amulets.

How to Use Catalysts Effectively
Using Catalysts is relatively straightforward: right-click a Catalyst, then left-click a jewelry item. However, their strategic value comes from knowing when to apply them.

Tips for optimal Catalyst use:

Use Before Crafting: Always apply Catalysts before you begin crafting your jewelry. Quality bonuses increase the magnitude of related modifiers, so applying them after crafting won't retroactively boost existing stats.

Combine With Harvest or Bench Crafting: A Catalyst-prepped piece of jewelry is an ideal target for bench crafting or Harvest re-rolling. For instance, an amulet with 20% Turbulent quality will roll stronger elemental damage mods.

Enhance Mirror-Tier Items: In top-tier crafting, Catalysts are used to squeeze out every percentage of value on mirror-worthy items. Even a 5% difference can change the DPS or defense margin of a high-end character.

Respec Flexibility: Catalysts also synergize with Anointments, Attribute stacking builds, and resist-anchored gear. For example, an Intrinsic Catalyst on a belt can strengthen attribute requirements or bonuses for gem scaling.

Catalyst Types and Their Effects
Here are the primary Catalyst types and what they boost:

Catalyst Type    Modifier Group Enhanced
Abrasive Catalyst    Attack modifiers
Fertile Catalyst    Life and mana modifiers
Intrinsic Catalyst    Attribute modifiers
Prismatic Catalyst    Elemental resistances
Turbulent Catalyst    Elemental damage modifiers
Tempering Catalyst    Defense modifiers (e.g., armor, ES)
Noxious Catalyst    Chaos and poison modifiers
Imbued Catalyst    Caster and spell modifiers

Choosing the right Catalyst depends heavily on your build. Caster builds benefit greatly from Imbued or Fertile Catalysts, while melee characters might focus on Abrasive and Tempering ones.

Final Thoughts
Catalysts in Path of Exile 2 offer a nuanced and potent avenue for enhancing jewelry beyond just rolling for affixes. They encourage long-term gear planning and reward players who understand their build’s needs deeply. While they remain rare and valuable, smart Catalyst usage can be the difference between good gear and truly exceptional gear.

As you progress into the deeper stages of the game, don’t overlook these little vials — they carry the potential to amplify your power and push your build to buy POE 2 Currency its limits.