Sure thing! The only thing though is to make SURE they cannot be tipped over on the snake...you want a flat bottom & low center of gravity. If it's less than
ideal in this respect, what I've done in the past is to use non-toxic aquarium silicone sealant to glue the rock to a flat/heavy ceramic tile to prevent tipping.
Also, if you live in an area prone to earthquakes, you should reconsider, as they can become "projectiles" that break glass or kill your reptiles.
But as far as absorbing odors/pathogens, they're perfectly washable & can be disinfected easily, & snakes use them (along with branches) to help them shed.
And yeah, they're "earthy" & look great too.