Abstract: A coloring composition comprising (i) gypsum dihydrate and (ii) at least one coloring agent selected from the group consisting of inorganic pigments, organic pigments, dyestuffs, and natural coloring matters. This coloring composition may be produced by mixing (i) gypsum having, as water of crystallization, 0 to 0.5 mole, based on one mole of the gypsum, of water, (ii) at least one coloring agent selected from the group consisting inorganic pigments, organic pigments, dyestuffs, and natural coloring matters, and (iii) water or an aqueous solvent solution, and after solidification, powdering the resultant solid mixture.The coloring composition can provide a clear color tone when formulated in, for example, cosmetics, and when completely dispersed in, for example, a cosmetic base material.

Abstract: A spherical clay mineral powder or spherical composite powder comprising water-swellable clay mineral with specific surface are of 100 m.sup.2 /g or more is provided, and the composite powder can contain an organic, inorganic or metal powder, an organic substance soluble in an organic solvent or a water-soluble substance, and these spherical powders can be formulated effectively in, for example, cosmetics.