A method and semiconductor device for synthesizing graphene using ion implantation of carbon. Carbon is implanted in a metal using ion implantation. After the carbon is distributed in the metal, the metal is annealed and cooled in order to precipitate the carbon from the metal to form a layer of graphene on the surface of the metal. The metal/graphene surface is then transferred to a dielectric layer in such a manner that the graphene layer is placed on top of the dielectric layer. The metal layer is then removed. Alternatively, recessed regions are patterned and etched in a dielectric layer located on a substrate. Metal is later formed in these recessed regions. Carbon is then implanted into the metal using ion implantation. The metal may then be annealed and cooled in order to precipitate the carbon from the metal to form a layer of graphene on the metal's surface.