Dr. Gladys Mae West ~ GPS ~

A pioneering mathematician whose work at the U.S. Naval Weapons Laboratory was essential to creating GPS. Considered to be a true “Hidden Figure,” she helped build the precise mathematical models of Earth — using complex algorithms and the IBM 7030 Stretch supercomputer — that allow satellites to calculate accurate positions. She also programmed satellite‑orbit calculations and later led major projects like Seasat and contributed to GEOSAT, refining the data behind modern GPS accuracy.

Hired in 1956 as one of the Navy’s few Black women mathematicians, West spent decades as a “human computer.” Her contributions were finally recognized in 2018, where she was inducted into the Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame.

Dr. West passed away on January 17, 2026, at age 95 — famously still preferring paper maps, saying she trusted her own mind more than the technology she helped create. SALUTE!!!

GPS is a handcrafted piece of jewelry made with 10mm Russian Serpentine and Bronzite beads with bronze accents.

The perfect piece to complement any outfit.