Miranda Kerr has shared her sorrow after the death of Sir Michael Hill, the founder of Michael Hill Jewellers. 

The Australian supermodel shared a moving tribute to Hill after his death at the age of 86, after a long battle with cancer. 

‘I’m deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Michael Hill,’ the 42-year-old told Stellar on Tuesday. 

‘He was a true visionary whose passion and creativity helped shape a brand that has brought joy to so many around the world,’ she continued. 

‘I feel incredibly honoured to be part of the brand he built with integrity, passion and heart.

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Miranda Kerr (pictured) has shared her sorrow after the death of Sir Michael Hill, the founder of Michael Hill Jewellers

‘My love and deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and the entire Michael Hill team.’

Michael Hill International Limited confirmed his passing on Tuesday morning, sharing a statement to the ASX and NZX that paid tribute to the celebrated jeweller and philanthropist.

‘It is with great sadness that Michael Hill International Limited announces the passing of our Founder and Non-Executive Director, Sir Michael Hill this morning,’ the company said. 

‘Sir Michael was a celebrated jeweller, entrepreneur, philanthropist and committed father and husband. 

‘With his wife Lady Christine, he founded and grew Michael Hill from its humble beginnings in Whangārei, New Zealand to a global retail jewellery brand that spans Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

The statement continued: ‘The Board, Executive and all the Michael Hill team express their deepest and sincerest condolences to Michael’s family and friends.’ 

He died at his family home in Arrowtown, on New Zealand’s South Island.

Hill launched his first jewellery store in Whangārei in 1979, laying the groundwork for a global retail empire with hundreds of stores. 

‘I’m deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Michael Hill,’ the 42-year-old told Stellar on Tuesday. Hill is pictured with Kim Kardashian in 2010

He is survived by his wife Christine and their two children

Today, the brand operates 287 stores across Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

His iconic and affordable jewellery was worn by some of the world’s most famous stars, including Kim Kardashian and Miranda Kerr.

In 2010, he launched a business venture with US reality TV star Kim Kardashian, to find the ‘world’s best couple’.

The pair offered a 22-carat Michael Hill diamond engagement ring as a prize to the winners. 

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon paid tribute to Hill in a statement.

‘Sir Michael Hill’s aspiration, grit, and determination to succeed not only built a globally recognised brand, but also inspired generations of Kiwi entrepreneurs to dream big,’ he said.

‘He built a brand from scratch and gave back to the country that he loved. May he rest in peace.’ 

His jewellery empire was worth over AU$700m worldwide, and he had a personal net worth of around AU$300m. 

Hill was knighted in 2011 for services to business and the arts. 

He is survived by his wife Christine and their two children, Mark and Emma.