AbstractThe light metal beryllium is a comparatively rare element, which nowadays is primarily derived from bertrandite. It is mainly used as pure metal or in the form of copper‐beryllium alloys, e.g., in automotive industry, aerospace, and electrical components. The wide range of applications is mainly attributed to the extremely high rigidity/density ratio. An overview of the history of the metal, its production and recycling as well as the properties of CuBe alloys are given.