Global beryllium mine production 2023, by country

The United States is the world's largest beryllium mine producer by far, with production amounting to an estimated 190 metric tons in 2023. China was distantly the second-biggest producer in the world, with an output of 74 metric tons. Global beryllium production in 2023 totaled an estimated 330 metric tons of contained beryllium.

Beryllium the light metal

The relatively rare chemical element beryllium is one of the lightest metals. Beryllium metal is used mainly in defense and aerospace applications because of its stiffness, dimensional stability over a wide temperature range, and its light weight. Beryllium-copper alloys and beryllium oxide are also forms of the metal that are used in applications that require the material's conductivity and strength. The gemstone beryl, with well-known varieties including emeralds and aquamarine, is also a beryllium compound.

U.S. beryllium

The U.S. is one of few countries in the world that processes beryllium ores and concentrates. As a result, it is the supplier of most of the world's beryllium requirements. The North American country also has a national defense stockpile of beryllium, which sits at around 64 metric tons of contained beryllium.