The Duchess of Cambridge is known for her love of discounts and thrift, but every once in a while, Kate shows that she can't refuse fine jewelry such as Cartier.

The Duchess of Cambridge wore a distinctive necklace made up of a series of chains and a diamond studded hoop. Some could say it was very timely for the upcoming Summer Olympics happening in London.

Kate visited the "Road to 2012: Aiming High" exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery yesterday. She stepped out in a car wearing a simple cut, electric blue dress by Stella McCartney paired with black Prada heels.

The expensive piece of jewelry was with Kate for quite a while now and is among her private collection. Although it was not specifically designed to be worn at the Olympics, Kate must have thought it was an appropriate piece to wear at the exhibit.

"It's a personal piece which she's had for some time. It's not an official Olympic item but it's appropriate to wear it," a spokesperson from the St. James palace said.

The exhibit gave Kate a sneak preview of the athletes and staffs as they pave their way towards the road to the Olympics. The Duchess was even featured in a black and white photograph by Jillian Edlestein while she was at the team GB hockey event at the Olympic Park earlier this year.

"She looked a little embarrassed and said she thought it would be just her hitting a few balls with the players," Jillian said of The Duchess. "She is beautiful - it must be difficult to take a bad photograph of her. She has a very easy, warm way about her which comes out in her pictures. She was a delight."

The "Road to 2012: Aiming High" is the final and by far, largest part of the NPG's Olympic project. It has documented the preparation for upcoming London 2012 Olympics.

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