Molybdomancy

Molybdomancy is divination by molten metal, originally lead, from the Greek molybdos. The melted metal is poured into cold water, where it hardens into shapes interpreted as omens for the year ahead. The custom remains popular at New Year in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Finland. Because lead is toxic, the kits sold today use tin or wax instead. It is a close relative of ceromancy.