Overview. Beryllium is the lightest member of the alkaline earth metals family. These metals make up Group 2 (IIA) of the periodic table. They include beryllium, magnesium, calcium, strontium, barium, and radium.Elements in the same column of the periodic table have similar chemical properties.eryllium is the lightest member of the alkaline earth metals family. These metals make up Group 2 (IIA) of the periodic table.