Abstract: A conductive fine sphere with a K-value and a recovery factor in a predetermined range is provided. Suppose a load value (kgf) is F, a compression displacement (mm) is S, and a radius (mm) is R at 10% compression deformation of this spacer, a K-value defined as the following equation is in the range of 250 kgf/mm.sup.2 to 700 kgf/mm.sup.2 at 20.degree. C., and a recovery factor after the compression deformation is in the range of 30% to 80% at 20.degree. C.

Abstract: A spherical spacer is provided for defining a gap dimension between substrates of a liquid crystal display. The K-value (hardness of a sphere) of the spherical spacer is defined as: ##EQU1## (wherein F and S represent a load value (kgf) and a compression displacement (mm) at 10% compression deformation of said fine sphere, respectively, and R represents a radius (mm) of said fine sphere) which is in the range of 250 kgf/mm.sup.2 to 700 kgf/mm.sup.2 at 20.degree. C.; and a recovery factor after the compression deformation which is in the range of 30% to 80% at 20.degree. C. A spherical spacer matching the newly found limitations and defining the gap between a pair of substrates into which liquid crystal is filled reduces the damage to an alignment coat when compared with spacers being too hard, and reduces quality deterioration of the image when compared with spacers being too soft.

Abstract: A coated color particle with extremely low susceptibility to decoloring is provided. The coated color particle comprises a colored core particle and a coating layer formed on the surface of the core particle, wherein the coating layer is formed by treatment of the core particle with an agent selected from the group consisting of silane compounds, silyl isocyanates, and organic titanium compounds.

Abstract: A particulate spacer for use in a liquid crystal display cell, electrochromic display device, or the like is provided. The particulate spacer comprises a core particle and a functional layer formed on the surface of the core particle.