Canadian Jeweller Magazine joins the global jewellery industry in mourning the passing of Sir Michael Hill, founder of Michael Hill Jeweller, who died on Tuesday at age 86 after a courageous battle with cancer.
An emblem of retail innovation, Sir Michael’s journey from a music-obsessed teenager to an international jewellery magnate is nothing short of inspirational. Born in New Zealand just before World War II, he originally pursued dreams of becoming a concert violinist. But by 17, he was told he had started too late to reach the pinnacle of his craft. That setback would prove to be the spark that launched a legendary career in another art form: jewellery.
Raised in Whangārei on New Zealand’s North Island, Sir Michael dropped out of high school at 16 and entered the jewellery business through his uncle’s local store. It was in that modest setting that he discovered a unique gift for storytelling, visual presentation, and the psychology of sales. By 1979, alongside his wife Christine, he opened the first Michael Hill Jeweller store.
What began as a single storefront soon evolved into an empire, thanks to Sir Michael’s audacious marketing strategies, dramatic window displays, and deep understanding of consumer emotion. He broke traditional advertising moulds, championing daring, often cinematic campaigns that turned his stores into destinations.
His vision crossed borders—Michael Hill International now operates 302 stores across Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, and generated nearly $650 million in revenue in 2024. The brand became a household name in Canada, known not only for its accessible luxury but also for innovative retail concepts that elevated the jewellery shopping experience.
“Sir Michael brought a deep sense of purpose and an enduring curiosity, open-mindedness, and creativity to everything he did,” said Rob Fyfe, Chairman of Michael Hill International. “He didn’t just sell jewellery—he reshaped the way the world saw it.”
Canadian jewellers took note. His influence is evident in how modern jewellery is merchandised and marketed today across the country. From Vancouver to Halifax, jewellers cite his boldness and ingenuity as a blueprint for brand growth.
Tributes have poured in from global leaders. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called Sir Michael’s story “a reminder that aspiration, grit, and determination can build global legacies,” noting that his journey has “inspired generations of Kiwi entrepreneurs to dream big.”
Sir Michael’s legacy also touched the world of celebrity. His designs have been worn by international icons such as Kim Kardashian and Miranda Kerr, bridging the gap between mass retail and high fashion with confidence and class.
Sir Michael Hill is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, Lady Christine, and their two children, Mark and Emma. He stepped down from the company’s board earlier this year to focus on treatment.
In honouring his memory, we acknowledge not only his achievements in business but his enduring spirit of reinvention. The jewellery world has lost a true trailblazer—but his light continues to shine through the hundreds of stores, thousands of employees, and millions of customers who still believe in his vision.
Rest in peace, Sir Michael. Your legacy is eternal.
