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Gemstone Heat Therapy: Healing, Relaxation, Self-Care
Gemstone heat therapy blends ancient crystal traditions with modern tech like infrared sauna blankets and PEMF mats. This at-home self-care method uses stones such as Amethyst, Jade, and Tourmaline alongside infrared therapy and PEMF technology.
Discover how these tools support your body's natural healing processes and wellness journey for deep relaxation, potential health benefits, and accessible home detox therapy.
Quick tour of the blogpost
- Cultural history of healing gemstones
- Blending gemstones in Western society
- Gemstone heat therapy
- Gemstone PEMF Mats vs. Sauna Blankets
- Hot gemstones
- Introducing the gemstones
- Gemstone Heat Therapy: Research & Evidence
- How to choose the right gemstone heat therapy
CULTURAL HISTORY OF HEALING GEMSTONES
Historically, cultures across the world have turned various gemstones into jewelry, believing that they can influence health and well-being.
Ancient Greece
The Greeks valued Amber for its supposed ability to heal and protect. Amber was thought to bring balance and well-being, and it was often used in jewelry and amulets to activate its protective powers.
Baltic Region
In the Baltic, Amber has been treasured since Neolithic times for its decorative and therapeutic properties. Rich in succinic acid, which is believed to have pain-relieving effects when warmed by the body, Amber's medicinal uses were recognized and expanded through trade along the famous Amber Road established by the Romans.
Ancient China
Jade, among other stones, has been used in China for over 2,000 years. Jade is believed to help energize the body’s chi, or lifeforce, and is used both heated and at room temperature. Body heat is thought to make Jade more effective when it's worn on the skin or used in massage tools.
Ayurvedic Medicine
In traditional Indian medicine, certain gemstones (Ruby, Pearl, Coral) are utilized to balance the body’s energy centers (chakras). They assume the warmth of the body triggers the stone’s healing properties, which are transferred to the body. This practice dates back thousands of years and is still in use today.
Ancient Egypt and the Middle East
Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise were not only ornamental but were also believed to have protective and health-promoting qualities. They were therefore used in jewelry and burial artifacts to secure health and protection in life and beyond.
Native American Tribes
Turquoise and other stones played important roles in spiritual and healing practices among Native American tribes, used in amulets and ceremonial items to provide healing, protection, and strength.
BLENDING GEMSTONES IN WESTERN SOCIETY
The rise of gemstones for their healing properties in Western society surged during the 1970s and 1980s, along with the growth of the holistic health and New Age movements. This reawakened the interest in natural health solutions, mixing Eastern and indigenous healing practices with Western wellness routines.
Amethyst and Jade for example, became part of various products, from decorative lamps to functional jewelry, for beauty and their influence on physical and spiritual well-being.
GEMSTONE HEAT THERAPY
The late 20th century saw a renaissance in holistic therapies, with ancient gemstone therapy being reexamined within the context of modern wellness practices. Innovations such as infrared heating and PEMF technology were combined with gemstones such as Amethyst, Jade and Tourmaline to amplify natural therapeutic effects.
Today, heated gemstone PEMF mats and sauna blankets combine traditional practices with modern tech. They're commonly used to support circulation, relax muscles, reduce stress, and are now a regular part of wellness routines.
Gemstone PEMF Mats vs. Sauna Blankets
Sauna Blankets
Sauna blankets* are portable infrared therapy devices, weighing between 15 to 20 pounds, making them easy to move and store. Sauna blankets wrap around the body, delivering heat directly and ideal for short sessions, generally up to 45 minutes. 👉 What is a sauna blanket?
The concentrated heat is intense and a perfect fit for quick, deep heat therapy sessions that induce sweating and support blood circulation. The blanket gives you the benefits of a traditional sauna in the comfort of your own home, affordably and without the need for a lot of space.
* Not all sauna blankets include healing gemstones
The HigherDOSE sauna blanket contains Amethyst and Tourmaline
PEMF Mats
A heated PEMF mat is a full-body device using Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields, usually weighing 25 to 40 pounds. It’s heavier than sauna blankets, making it better for permanent setups on a couch or bed.Smaller formats like wraps, chair mats, half mats, and 20-inch squares provide targeted relief and fit well in a car, at a desk, or on the go. 👉 What is PEMF therapy?
Most PEMF mats* can be used for extended periods, up to 12 hours, supporting activities like a full night's rest. The temperature settings for long sessions are typically lower compared to sauna blankets. This milder heat is beneficial when you do want the therapeutic effects of infrared but are sensitive to high temperatures.
* Not all PEMF mats include healing gemstones
Healthyline Jet Chair Mat contains Amethyst, Tourmaline, Jade and Obsedian
HOT GEMSTONEs
As far infrared gemstones are heated, they produce effects that may support the body’s response to therapy. Here's what they do.
Far-Infrared Radiation
Far-Infrared Radiation (FIR) is a subdivision of the infrared band in the electromagnetic spectrum with wavelengths between 3-100 micrometers. It is known for its deep penetrating heat, which feels like a gentle warmth to the human body. FIR can penetrate up to 1.5 inches beneath the skin, elevate blood circulation, oxygen flow, relax deeply and detoxify.
This type of infrared is particularly effective because it's absorbed by the body and helps to increase the internal body temperature without heating the surrounding air. This characteristic makes FIR beneficial for therapies like infrared saunas, which provide heat treatment without the discomfort of high ambient temperatures.
FIR helps to expand blood capillaries, which can amplify blood flow and regeneration of tissues. It is also supports cardiovascular health by increasing heart rate and decreasing blood pressure. FIR heat advances detox processes through profound perspiration and lymphatic drainage, removing toxins from the body. [1]
Negative Ions
Negative ions are atoms or molecules with an extra electron, common in places like forests and near waterfalls. Heated gemstones release these ions, which can help neutralize pollutants in the air [2].
These ions may affect the body’s electromagnetic field and influence serotonin, which plays a role in mood and stress, potentially easing depression symptoms and improving energy.
1love Health Sauna Blanket contains Jade and Tourmalin
INTRODUCING THE GEMSTONES
Each gemstone has its own effect. Jade is known for its calming feel, while Tourmaline is linked to mood shifts. Let’s walk through them.
Amethyst (Purple quartz)
Calming and purifying, when Amethyst is heated it emits a steady stream of far-infrared radiation and negative ions. It's believed to help with stress relief, detoxification, and restful sleep. Its ability to elevate mood and soothe the nervous system makes it a popular choice for therapeutic use. This healing crystal is predominantly mined in Brazil, Uruguay, and Siberia.
Jade
Traditionally used to promote healing and balance, Jade is reputed for its ability to stabilize and harmonize the body’s natural energies. It retains heat effectively, alleviating pain in muscles and joints. Jade is also said to aid in fertility and detoxification treatments. Jade is mainly sourced from China, Russia, and Guatemala.
Tourmaline
This gemstone is particularly known for its ability to emit a high level of negative ions and far-infrared rays, making it beneficial for circulation, detoxification, and stress reduction. Tourmaline can also strengthen the body’s resilience, minimizing recovery times from physical activities. It comes from regions like Brazil, Africa, and Afghanistan.
Obsidian
Sometimes used for its properties of grounding and protection. Obsidian is thought to help with digestion and detoxify, and to absorb and disperse negativity. Obsidian is primarily found in volcanic areas, with notable deposits in the United States (especially in Oregon), Mexico, Italy, Armenia, Turkey, and Ethiopia.
HealthyLine Taj Mat contains Amethyst, Tourmaline and Jade
Gemstone Heat Therapy: Research & Evidence
Gemstone therapy has been used for centuries and is believed to provide health benefits, though scientific research remains limited. Still, some studies and theories suggest ways gemstones might have therapeutic effects. Here are the key points:
Far-Infrared Radiation research
Far-infrared radiation has been studied for its possible effects on blood flow, metabolism, pain levels, and muscle tension [3].
Research suggests that FIR penetrates deeply into tissues, supporting cellular repair and regeneration. While there's ongoing research on FIR therapy, more studies are needed to fully understand its mechanisms and efficacy in the context of gemstone therapy.
Negative Ions research
Certain gemstones, particularly Tourmaline, are believed to release negative ions when heated. Negative ions are abundant in natural environments such as forests, waterfalls, and beaches, and have been associated with various health benefits, including improved mood, reduced stress, and aiding overall well-being.
Some studies suggest that negative ions may help to neutralize free radicals, balance serotonin levels, and better respiratory function [4,5]. More research might determine the specific effects of negative ions released from gemstones.
Higherdose PEMF mat contains Amethyst and Tourmaline
Placebo Effect
When looking at gemstone therapy, the placebo effect matters. Health improvements can come from believing a treatment works even if its actual effects are limited. This belief can trigger real changes in the body, like shifts in neurotransmitters and natural healing processes [6].
Some scientific studies support the potential benefits of gemstone therapy, but more research is needed to clarify how and when it works. Responses vary, so gemstone therapy should be seen as a supplement, not a substitute for standard medical care.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT GEMSTONE HEAT THERAPY
Sauna blankets and PEMF mats help with relaxation, pain relief, and detox. If you’re new to this therapy, our reviews cover brands like HigherDose, Grooni Earthing, and HealthyLine. These products use far-infrared tech combined with gemstones like tourmaline and jade to deliver natural benefits.
We cover everything: from the science behind PEMF and infrared technologies to the types of stones used, design details, temperature settings, and safety features. For more guides and reviews, check out saunace.com and explore the blog.
Saunace.com publishes reviews and usage guides for infrared and PEMF devices to help readers compare options and use them safely; see the About page to learn how we research and evaluate products.
Sam Everhart
Updated: July 2025
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References
1. Fatma Vatansever and Michael R. Hamblin, Far infrared radiation (FIR): its biological effects and medical applications, PubMed, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3699878/
2. Denise Mann, Negative Ions Create Positive Vibes, WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/balance/features/negative-ions-create-positive-vibes
3. Fatma Vatansever and Michael R. Hamblin, Far infrared radiation (FIR): its biological effects and medical applications, PubMed, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3699878/
4. Jiang SY, Ma A and Ramachandran S. Negative Air Ions and Their Effects on Human Health and Air Quality Improvement. PubMed, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6213340/
5. Xiao S et al., Biological effects of negative air ions on human health and integrated multiomics to identify biomarkers: a literature review. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10175061/
6. Harvard Health Publishing, The power of the placebo effect, Harvard Medical School, https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/the-power-of-the-placebo-effect