There is a new symbol type for view point vector data: the sphere. This symbol is a true 3D sphere (like the Cube symbol). In previous versions of Surfer, there was a symbol named Sphere. This symbol is still available and has been renamed Shaded circle. The Shaded circle is not a true 3D shape, it is a flat circle that is shaded by light to appear 3D.

To plot your vector data points in true 3D spheres, see the steps below: 

1. Open the 3D View by selecting the Map containing a Base(vector) layer in the Contents window then clicking Map Tools | Map Tools | 3D View. 
2. Click the Base(vector) layer in the Contents window to select it. 
3. In the Properties window on the General page, change the Symbol to Sphere. 
   

More on the differences between the Sphere and Shaded circle symbol types: 

• Drawing speed: The Sphere symbols are a little more time-intensive to draw than the Shaded circles. For larger data sets we recommend either using the Shaded circle symbol to gain the same effect, or, reducing the Point density on the General page of the Properties window. 
  
  
• Effect of the environment lighting model: The appearance of the Sphere symbol is affected by the Environment Lighting model. When the environment lighting is set to Smooth, the spheres are smooth. When it is set to Flat, then the spheres have a faceted appearance.

The 3D vector symbol Sphere has a faceted texture when the Environment lighting is set to smooth

Updated December 19, 2021