Abstract: A chromium-containing catalyst is disclosed which includes both ZnCr2O4 and crystalline ?-chromium oxide. The ZnCr2O4 contains between about 10 atom percent and 67 atom percent of the chromium in the composition and at least about 70 atom percent of the zinc in the composition, and at least about 90 atom percent of the chromium present as chromium oxide in the composition is present as ZnCr2O4 or crystalline ?-chromium oxide. Also disclosed are a method for preparing this composition comprising ZnCr2O4 and crystalline ?-chromium oxide; and a chromium-containing catalyst composition prepared by treatment of the composition comprising ZnCr2O4 and crystalline ?-chromium oxide with a fluorinating agent.