Jessica Chastain wore Elizabeth Taylor's necklace to the 'Cleopatra' screening at the Cannes Film Festival.

The actress paid tribute to the late screen star for the film's 50th anniversary viewing last night (21.05.13) by wearing the same Bulgari necklace Richard Burton bought for Elizabeth's 40th birthday after falling for her on the set of the classic movie.

Jessica was the picture of elegance in her off-white Versace Collection gown, which complemented the sapphire-and-diamond accessory, complete with a 65-carat centre stone.

Bulgari rarely lend such valuable pieces to stars, but made an exception for the 'Zero Dark Thirty' actress, and one of Elizabeth's old friends believes the screen siren would have been pleased with the tribute.

The insider told People magazine: ''Elizabeth was extremely generous with her jewellery. She often let trusted friends borrow select pieces she chose especially for them.

''Elizabeth had many treasured pieces she kept through the decades, but the most notable was the yellow Irene Sharaff dress she wore when she married Richard Burton. Irene Sharaff also designed [her] costumes for 'Cleopatra'.''

Bulgari has teamed up with 20th Century Fox to commemorate the film's 50th anniversary. On top of donating to the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, they co-hosted an afterparty with Jessica, allowing guests to see the jewels from Elizabeth's collection up close.

Richard originally bought the necklace for the late star in 1964 alongside a matching broach, just a few months after he presented her with an emerald ring to mark the start of their affair.