Abstract: A process for obtaining Ketone of formula 1a,b, which includes contacting a Ketone represented by formula 2a,b with a first catalyst under conditions and for a time sufficient to obtain an intermediate mixture, which intermediate mixture contains a Ketone represented by formula 4a,b; and contacting the intermediate mixture, or a fraction thereof, with a second catalyst under conditions effective to provide a product containing a Ketone of formula 1a,b. Moreover, the first catalyst preferably differs from the second catalyst with the first catalyst preferably being an isomerization catalyst and the second catalyst being a cyclization catalyst. The process is capable of providing unexpectedly incresased yields of both Ketone 4 and Ketone 1.