I was wondering if the gems attached to an elder are still considered special objects while attached to the matching elders? So they may not be used with the gauntlet.

They are still Special Objects that are part of your force so you can not use them with the Gauntlet.

Totally unrelated (oh BTW MisterId is correct) but what the heck is that in you avatar there tonysking? I see it's the Krakoa map, but what is that figure?