The present invention pertains to a process for preparing a compound of
Formula I that is achiral, racemic or enantiomerically enriched at the
hydroxylation center indicated by * ##STR00001## comprising contacting a
compound of Formula II ##STR00002## with an oxidant selected from
oxygen, hydrogen peroxide, peracids or alkyl hydroperoxides in the
presence of a zirconium complex, wherein R.sup.1, R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 are
as defined in the disclosure. This invention also pertains to zirconium
complexes useful in this procedure comprising zirconium and a ligand of
Formula III or its enantiomer ##STR00003## wherein J, R.sup.6 and n are
as defined in the disclosure. This invention further pertains to a
compound of Formula III or its enantiomer.