I'm sorry to reply so late to this one, but my strategy for this is primarily moving the chamber square. A LOT. I hardly move the regular cloud square or the jetstream square. But having a movable chamber is almost as good as having unlimited moves (of course, I realize that's just my opinion).
Use the movable chamber square to make regular matches to clear out the gravel at the top and the bottom of the columns. Then start creating flame gems (and star gems or hypercubes) to clear out the stones. When feasible, use the chamber to move the special gems into place.
Good luck!
